FIRE Case Files

Georgetown University: Unequal Treatment of Student Organizations

Despite its Speech & Expression Policy stating that “‘time, place and manner’ are the only norms allowable in governing the expression of ideas and sharing of information that is the very life of the university,” Georgetown University has consistently refused to recognize the pro-choice student group H*yas for Choice, saying that doing so would conflict with its Catholic and Jesuit mission. Georgetown’s Access to Benefits Policy denies groups like H*yas for Choice equal treatment among student groups, contradicting its moral and contractual promises of free speech. Further, H*yas for Choice was denied recognition despite the existence of recognized groups of Muslim and Jewish students that explicitly differ from Catholicism. Georgetown has declined to resolve its contradictory and discriminatory statements and actions.